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Playout Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Starz

Broadcast Media IP Engineer

Denver, CO · Hybrid

Support playout systems and automation infrastructure to ensure continuity, synchronization, and reliability of service. * Apply established architectures and best practices across media ingest ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

El Paso, TX

Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device failures. * Capture and document network processes such as timing of log elements, program run times and ...

Digital Remedy

Master Control Operator

Hunt Valley, MD

$18.50 - $19/hr

Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout. * Monitor equipment for performance / device failures. * Capture and document network processes such as timing of log elements, program run times and ...

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How much do playout jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for playout in the United States is $191,750.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $147,500.00 and $233,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Playout job?

A Playout job involves managing the transmission of television or online video content to audiences. Playout operators or engineers ensure that scheduled programs, advertisements, and live broadcasts run smoothly and without disruptions. Responsibilities include monitoring automated systems, handling last-minute schedule changes, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with broadcast standards. This role is essential for television networks, streaming services, and media broadcasters to deliver high-quality, uninterrupted content.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Playout position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Playout Operator, you need a solid understanding of broadcast operations, timing, and media workflows, typically supported by experience or certification in television or media production. Proficiency with playout automation systems (such as Pebble Beach, Imagine Communications, or Grass Valley), media asset management software, and video servers is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective multitasking abilities, and clear communication are vital soft skills for managing live and scheduled broadcasts. These skills are important to ensure seamless content transmission, minimize on-air errors, and maintain broadcast quality in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced in a Playout Operator role, and how are they typically addressed?

Playout Operators often face challenges such as last-minute schedule changes, technical glitches, or the need to quickly resolve on-air issues under tight deadlines. To address these, operators work closely with the engineering and scheduling teams to ensure all content is ready and troubleshooting protocols are in place. Training on backup procedures and automation systems helps minimize disruptions, and attention to detail is critical to avoid mistakes. Most facilities provide continuous professional development to keep operators updated on evolving broadcast technologies and best practices.

More about Playout jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Playout jobs? The most popular types of Playout jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Playout jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Playout jobs are:
Playout jobs near you
Infographic showing various Playout job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $191,750 per year, or $92.2 per hour.

Master Control Operator

Sinclair Broadcast Group

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Sinclair Broadcast Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 65 rated media

Job description

Job Description
Sinclair's content technology is at the core of our operational excellence. We thrive on innovation and a passion for connecting people with the best local news and sports content. As we grow our content offerings and expand our broadcast, cable, and digital distribution channels, we are embracing modern technologies to fuel that growth. We are excited by the promise of cloud-first approaches and artificial intelligence in media systems. Sinclair believes that flexibility and agility will address rapidly changing media environments and we are confident that great people and great technology equal great solutions.
The role of Master Control Operator is responsible for operating the multi-channel and multi-brand control point for Sinclair Television Stations located in Pittsburgh, PA. Duties include, but are not limited to, Live event operations, graphics insertion, playlist manipulation, and monitoring on-air quality of the TV Station to ensure all content airs accurately and reflects the traffic and programming schedules.
Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Understand and follow standard operating procedures for various networks, including high profile live events and disaster recovery.
  • Modification and verification of playlists for current and future broadcast times.
  • Manipulate playlist for the different "join in progress" scenarios.
  • Consistently monitor on-air material and communicate any discrepancies to Managers.
  • Consistently ensure that playlist information and media content are accurate, which may include but is not limited to:
  • SOM/EOM of segments
  • Database Information
  • Audio specifications
  • Video specifications
  • Secondary events (GPI,SCTE104 and Graphic Insertion)
  • Content
  • Closed Captioning
  • Active Format Descriptor.
  • Ensure proper video routing.
  • Record, Ingest and Prepare content for playout.
  • Monitor equipment for performance / device failures.
  • Capture and document network processes such as timing of log elements, program run times and on air discrepancies.
  • Setup and review content prior to scheduled airtime.
  • Communicate effectively with Managers and Operators to ensure a smooth transition between shifts.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Understand and follow departmental policies.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 1 Year experience in Master Control Operations functions.
  • Experience in Local TV Station Operations. (A PLUS)
  • Experience in Switching Live Local News and Sporting Events. (A PLUS)
  • Must have great attention to detail and ability to multitask, monitoring multiple playlists and video monitors simultaneously.
  • General understanding of industry regulations and standards for video, audio, captioning and loudness.
  • Understanding of broadcast technology such as switchers, server playout, automation systems, waveform monitors and rasterizers.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, work under stress and perform as part of a team.
  • Aptitude for operating electronic equipment and the capability to learn specialized applications.
  • Experience with Systems and Hardware for Content Ingest, Playout and Distribution.
  • Knowledge of Amagi CLOUDPORT Automation system. (A PLUS)
  • Available to work any shift in a 24/7 Operation as well as holidays and weekends.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

Sinclair is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace. Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by virtue of an applicant's or employee's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
About Us
Sinclair, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI) is a diversified media company and a leading provider of local news and sports. The Company owns, operates and/or provides services to 177 television stations in 79 markets affiliated with all major broadcast networks; owns Tennis Channel, the premium destination for tennis enthusiasts; multicast networks CHARGE, Comet, ROAR and The Nest. Sinclair's AMP Media produces a growing portfolio of digital content and original podcasts. Additional information about Sinclair can be found at www.sbgi.net.
About the Team
The life-blood of our organization is our people. We have a compelling story, a goal-oriented culture, and we take really good care of people. How good? Here is a glimpse: great benefits, open door policy, upward mobility and a strong desire to see you succeed. Ready to be part of a winning team? Let's talk.

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